Thursday, 26 January, 2006

Newsnight is overflowing with stories tonight - from Hamas' victory to the state of John Prescott's office.

Palestinian elections

We'll be live in Ramallah amidst the scenes of jubilation from Hamas supporters and consternation from the Fatah old guard.

The Palestinians are at an extraordinary crossroads and much depends on Hamas' approach to Israel and vice versa - will they call a cessation of all violence and espouse a two states policy?

Are there parallels with the journey made by Sinn Fein? George Bush called it "a wake up call" for good government in the Palestinian territories and implored Mahmoud Abbas to stay in office, but it's as yet unclear how the US will deal with a new Hamas led government.

Simon Hughes

Why was Simon Hughes unable to tell the truth about his sexuality? Is there still a censorious culture in this country towards homosexuality and bi-sexuality?

John Prescott

The Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott, has been rapped over the knuckles by a Commons select committee investigating the smooth running and effectiveness of his department - apparently he didn't appear at the inquiry.

The Select Committee found that only 59% of his staff understood how their work contributed to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister's five year plan, and there were higher-than-average instances of bullying and discrimination.

Michael Crick's on the case.

Also

On the eve of Holocaust Memorial Day, we ask whether there's been a rise in the number of people willing to deny it ever happened.

Please join us at 10.30pm on BBC TWO.

Kirsty

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